Ammonia Staffing and Training at Coal Plants

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) uses anhydrous ammonia in selective catalytic reduction systems to aid in the removal of nitrogen oxide, a by-product of burning coal. Anhydrous ammonia is hazardous when inhaled, ingested, or when it comes in contact with the eyes, skin, or mucous membranes. Based on safety risks associated with the handling of ammonia, we initiated an evaluation to determine the adequacy of staffing and training of ammonia operations at coal plants. Based on our review of the training required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency regulations, we determined the ammonia training provided by TVA addressed most of the federal training requirements; however, some elements may not be addressed. We also found (1) some personnel had not completed all of the required training, and (2)training could be improved by adding hands-on and more frequent training. Additionally, based on interviews with plant personnel, we determined the staffing of maintenance personnel for ammonia systems was adequate at the four coal plants we reviewed. However, staffing for assistant unit operators was inadequate or needed improvement at two of the four plants.